Bill > S3863

This bill establishes a program within the Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) for the State to acquire development easements, conservation restrictions, or other perpetual restrictions on privately-owned woodlands of at least 5 contiguous acres that are managed under an approved forest stewardship or woodland management plan. The bill creates a "Woodlands Protection Fund" to finance these acquisitions, which can be funded through federal, state, local, and private sources. The DEP, in consultation with the State Forester, will develop rules and regulations to implement the program, including application procedures, evaluation criteria, and management requirements. Acquired easements or restrictions must be filed with the municipal tax assessor and county clerk, and landowners are not required to provide public access to the woodlands.

Agriculture and Natural Resources

https://www.njleg.state.nj.us/bill-search/2022/S3863